An Elbe River cruise is a great way to explore some of East Germany’s most memorable cities, including the capital of the Saxony region, Dresden, which you’re likely to visit, whichever itinerary you book. It’s a fascinating place rich in history and some river cruise lines dock overnight, giving you even more time to explore.
Though human settlements in the area can be traced back much further, Dresden itself is a relatively new city and dates back to the 13th century. By the time of the 15th and 16th centuries it was one of Europe’s most cultural cities, thanks to it being the seat of power for the Kings of Saxony, as well as the electors, who furnished it with many of architectural gems. Indeed, it earned the name ‘The Jewel Box’ thanks to beautiful baroque and rococo centre. Over the centuries it continued to prosper, enduring French occupation and the German Revolutions but its darkest day would come during the Second World War, when it was bombed to such an extent by allied forces that at least 25,000 of its citizens lost their lives and its centre was completely destroyed. Nevertheless, today, many of its historic attractions remain and much of the city has been faithfully reconstructed.
What’s not to miss
Frauenkirche
Possibly the city’s most iconic cathedral, this beautiful building was massively damaged during the Second World War and the huge project to reconstruct it is still underway, though today, it’s structurally intact, with just some of the more cosmetic work still to be done. The façade is stunning, as is the interior, which is dominated by the cathedral’s beautiful dome, which you can scale to enjoy a magnificent view of the Elbe.
The Royal Palace
Sometimes known as Dresden Castle, this fascinating complex of buildings forms a popular focal point for many a Dresden river cruise excursion. There are several museums to explore here, most famous of which is The Green Vault, one of the city’s most celebrated tourist attractions. Architecturally stunning, it’s a piece of art in itself and holds a host of amazing treasures, jewellery and artworks, most notably the world’s only large green diamond. Book in advance to make sure that you get in.
Semper Opera House
Another iconic building which has been reconstructed following the Second World War, the Semper Opera House is built in a High Renaissance style and is one of the city’s landmark buildings. Even if you’re not a fan of opera, the interior is truly beautiful and a guided tour is recommended, because during it, you’ll be able to learn all about the building’s history. Of course, for opera, ballet or jazz fans with a little more time to spend in the city, the opera house offers regular performances in a stunning setting.
Zwinger
Fancy combining a visit to a beautiful palace with a museum and art gallery tour? If the answer’s yes, then Zwinger’s the place. This baroque delight is full of stately ambience and it’s an attraction enough just to walk around the balconies and courtyard to soak up the atmosphere. Within the palace, however, you’ll find three galleries, comprising the Picture Gallery, which is a must-see for art lovers, the Porcelain Collection and the Maths Museum, which houses one of the world’s foremost collections of historic scientific equipment.
Gemaldegalerie Alte Meister
As you’ve probably guessed, Dresden’s a given if you love art but even for the uninitiated, or those wishing to gain more of an insight, this gallery is an artistic must-see. It is home to none other than Rafael’s celebrated Sistine Madonna as well as a veritable array of masterpieces by artistic icons such as Titian and Rubens. A great place to go if you want to appreciate some of the finest works of the old masters and word is that the café is pretty good, too.
By Simon Brotherton
Google
photo credit: Holger Wirth via photopin cc
